Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles come in two basic types: glass fiber and organic. Organic shingles consist of an organic felt material which is generally paper saturated with asphalt to make it waterproof. A top coating of adhesive asphalt is then applied and the ceramic granules are then embedded. Organic shingles contain around 40% more asphalt per square (100 sq. ft.) than their glass fiber counterpart which makes them weigh more and gives them excellent durability and blow-off resistance.

Glass fiber shingles have a glass fiber reinforcing mat manufactured to the shape of the shingle. This mat is then coated with asphalt which contains mineral fillers. The glass fiber mat is not waterproof by itself. It’s purpose is for reinforcement. What makes the glass fiber shingle waterproof is the asphalt. However, the asphalt itself will not stick to the mat. For this reason, “fillers” are used. The fillers in the asphalt cling to the glass fibers in the mat. The asphalt then encapsulates the glass fibers, fills all of the little holes and voids in the mat rendering it waterproof. After this cools a bit, adhesive asphalt is used to cover the mat and the ceramic granules are then embedded.

The ceramic granules are there for two reasons. The primary reason is to protect the shingles from the sun. The sun’s UV rays are very damaging to asphalt and cause it to deteriorate prematurely. This is one of the same reasons that gravel is used on built-up roofs. The second and more obvious reason for the granules is aesthetics.

Asphalt shingles are available in a wide variety of colors to match almost any facade or landscape.

Testimonials

"I would be pleased to award Vertex Roofing an AAA rating for fairness in pricing, attention to aesthetics of the finished product, working with the insurance carriers to process claims and for getting the job..."

- Shirley, Fairfax Va

"We trust Vertex Roofing as our contractor. They show up and they work quickly. They communicate with me, and I trust that they will be right there after any job to fix lingering issues, if any..."

- Norma, Manassas Va

"Thanks for the excellent roof job! Your suggestion of the Black color was great and I like the style and look of the architectural shingle. The day after the men finished, there were very strong..."